After falling short in last year’s Group 2 state semi-final, the Cinnaminson boys’ soccer team, led by head coach Matthew Digney, entered the 2025 season with unfinished business. This year’s team, led by senior captains James Kuzowsky and Luke Parson, who have a combined eight goals and six assists, have built the team’s identity on leadership, accountability, and resilience. The Pirates finished the season 8-5 and second in South Jersey’s Group 2 after a tough loss to Manasquan in the playoffs.

For Kuzowsky, being named captain meant more than just wearing an armband.

 “Being a captain means being there for all your teammates and keeping the team in check,” Kuzowsky said. “It’s about being someone who leads not only on the field but in life, showing qualities that go beyond the sport.”

Parson shared that same sense of duty when committing to the role.

“It’s very important to me because I feel like I hold a lot of responsibility and help keep everyone accountable,” Parson said. “Being captain holds me to a higher standard, which pushes me to be the best version of myself on and off the field.”

 Digney said he believes that in order to achieve success, there has to be fun involved. 

“We work hard. But I also believe in trying to have some fun out there,” Coach Digney said. “I do not want this to be a job for them.”

Digney emphasizes the importance of camaraderie among the team, highlighting how enjoyable the season has been.

“It’s a great group, athletically and soccer-wise they do good,” Digney said. “I enjoy seeing them every day, they’re fun, they’re funny, they’re organized, and they’re disciplined.” 

Both captains have experienced the highs and lows of the season. Kuzowsky talked about the team’s struggles as the season progressed and noted one common theme. 

“Our toughest challenge has been starting games a little slow. Once we settle in, we play our best soccer, but finding that energy right from kickoff has been something we’ve worked to improve,” Kuzowsky said.

Parson also reflected on the team’s mid-season adversity. 

“When we went on a three-game losing streak, it was hard getting the team motivated to come to practice,” Parson said. “But bouncing back together as a team showed how strong we really are.”

The captains cherish the memories they have made on the field along the way, appreciating the experiences that will stay with them long after high school.

 “Beating Delran for the first time in three years to win the division,” Kuzowsky said about one of his favorite memories. “Watching all the seniors tear up after the game was a great feeling.” 

Parson recalled another unforgettable moment, even from the sidelines. 

“The penalty shootout against Lindenwold, that one year everyone was on such a high. I was injured, but I’ll never forget it,” Parson said.

The 2025 Pirates have built their success on grit and growth. Despite this, the Pirates finished the season 8-5 and second in South Jersey’s Group 2 after a tough loss to Manasquan in the playoffs. 

“This year we have a little more will to win,” Kuzowsky said. “Last year’s seniors were great, but this team really has heart.” 

For Parson, that same growth has been personal. 

“Last year I only played about 20 minutes, and now I’m in the game almost the whole time,” Parson said. “The younger guys look up to us more now, and it’s about taking on that responsibility.”

Looking at their record, the team has shown promise in the playoffs after they posted several key wins through early October, including a 4-0 victory against Holy Cross, a 4-1 win over Florence, and a 1-0 win at Delran. These results reflect how the Pirates have been able to both secure strong defensive performances and step up offensively.

Digney attempts to keep the team motivated through tough, repetitive practices every day by making everything fun. 

“I want it to be something that they really enjoy and look forward to,” Digney said. “We try to do things such as team dinners, and try to keep practices serious, work hard, but also have a little fun.” 

As the regular season pushed into playoffs, both captains kept their messages simple: work hard, stay positive, and play together. 

Ultimately, the Pirates finished the season 8-5 and second in South Jersey’s Group 2 after a tough loss to Manasquan in the playoffs.